NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports that Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski broke his forearm during the game and is telling people he'll be out 4 to 6 weeks, according to a source close to the player.

Gronkowski likely will have surgery Monday, a source informed of the tight end's plans told Rapoport.

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Gronkowski was seen going to the Patriots' locker room late in the fourth quarter Sunday with what was an undisclosed injury. Rapoport reports the injury took place on an extra-point try with under five minutes left and the Patriots ahead by 35 points. (That news should quiet those who believe the Patriots suffered from bad karma for leaving their starters in the game. What is this, the SEC?)

Gronkowski had 137 yards and two touchdowns before leaving the game, and that will be tough production to replace. Fellow Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez hasn't played since Week 7 because of an ankle injury, but he is believed to be close to returning to the field. Visanthe Shiancoe and Julian Edelman figure to pick up snaps with Gronkowski out, but this is a brutal blow for the top-ranked New England offense.

No tight end in the league combines the vicius blocking and playmaking ability of Gronk. The bright side for New England: It sounds like he'll be back in time for a playoff run.